TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[GiveMeTC2026]

Ah I’m sorry - can I ask when you completed it?

Last night

 

[iwatchsuits]

Kind of worried about my Simmons scores now, I got 7, 9, 4 and excelled in both numerical and verbal but scared that the 4 will weigh me down massively! 🙁 have no idea how they judge/weigh the results

 

[WiddyJ]

Kind of worried about my Simmons scores now, I got 7, 9, 4 and excelled in both numerical and verbal but scared that the 4 will weigh me down massively! 🙁 have no idea how they judge/weigh the results

what are the three competencies you received 7, 9, 4 in if you don’t mind me asking?

 

[johnsmith]

Kind of worried about my Simmons scores now, I got 7, 9, 4 and excelled in both numerical and verbal but scared that the 4 will weigh me down massively! 🙁 have no idea how they judge/weigh the results

I had the same worry, I got an 8, 7 & 5 but remember it's holistic - you have your verbal & numerical, but even more importantly, your VI answers, which I'm sure carry a huge amount of weight!

 

[iwatchsuits]

what are the three competencies you received 7, 9, 4 in if you don’t mind me asking?

7 in self management, 9 in commercial acumen and 4 in people skills

 

[iwatchsuits]

I had the same worry, I got an 8, 7 & 5 but remember it's holistic - you have your verbal & numerical, but even more importantly, your VI answers, which I'm sure carry a huge amount of weight!

That’s very true actually, ahh it’s just so easy to spiral and read into every little stage of the process. Fingers crossed we get through! ☺️

 

[InterestInPublicLaw]

Has anyone heard back from Burges Salmon in regards to the Winter VS? Just got an email saying I will hear by the end of the week, so just wondering if anyone has got a PFO or assessment centre invite yet.

No response yet, perhaps might mean a positive result for you!

I also haven’t heard anything from Burges Salmon

They just closed for applications yesterday and they don't recruit on a rolling basis so I wouldn't worry too much about it. Good luck to us all!

 

[Joey green]

Hey, is there anyone who did the Jones Day AC in October who can help me? And/or Case White’s virtual interview… it would be much appreciated and I am sure I have other insights I could share in return!

 

[johnsmith]

That’s very true actually, ahh it’s just so easy to spiral and read into every little stage of the process. Fingers crossed we get through! ☺️

It most certainly is, and that's why being part of a forum like this is so important.

 

[WeGotThis!]

Anyone did W&C VI yet? I wanted to know the time allocation as is it 2 mins overall or 2 mins to speak.

 

[J1234]

Hey!

Congratulations on getting the interview, what a fantastic achievement!

Most first-stage interviews will be relatively conversational, with the aim of learning more about your motivations and skillset. You can expect questions around your motivation for law, why Gibson Dunn specifically, and competency-based questions (such as showing examples of teamwork, resilience, or attention to detail).

It really helps to have a strong answer for why Gibson Dunn in particular. I would make sure to refresh your research of the firm and have a look at a few of their standout deals (especially in their main practice areas), as well as think about what attracts you to their US firm culture in London. Try to show you understand how they differ from other US firms in London, such as their focus close trainee supervision and smaller intakes.

Also, have a few thoughtful questions ready for the interviewer - these do not have to be overly technical, but you should show some genuine curiosity in learning more about the firm and the application process. I would usually prepare 2-3 in advance, but it's also good to bring up questions that pop up on the day!

Overall, whilst you should show clear motivations and knowledge of the firm, it is a chance to get to know you better - stay relaxed, be yourself, and show enthusiasm for the firm and its work. Best of luck!

Thank you so so much! This is incredibly helpful and reassuring. I really appreciate all your advice, I'll make sure to incorporate all of it into my preparation. Really thank you so much!

 

[abc124]

Does anyone know if W&C VI questions are currently relatively standard? I've seen some threads from few years ago, the questions were quite bizarre (e.g. If you had a £1,000,000 where would you invest?) and I'm not sure how representative this is now. The email just said to reflect on practice areas that interest you, legal trends etc. but I'm terrified of getting an 'explain commercial law to your grandma' question with 15 seconds prep time

 

[WeGotThis!]

Does anyone know if W&C VI questions are currently relatively standard? I've seen some threads from few years ago, the questions were quite bizarre (e.g. If you had a £1,000,000 where would you invest?) and I'm not sure how representative this is now. The email just said to reflect on practice areas that interest you, legal trends etc. but I'm terrified of getting an 'explain commercial law to your grandma' question with 15 seconds prep time

I don't think they'll ask such obscure questions in a VI as it's the first time the firm is interacting with a potential candidate. This is probably at a later stage or must be for TC interviews.